Mystery bugs are swarming Seville’s parks and terraces, what we know about them so far

Tiny insects have been found huddling together on benches, cafe tables and even football stands in Seville's parks and terraces this week, causing concern among residents. The Andalucia regional health department has stated there are "no outbreaks or infestations," and the insects do not transmit infectious diseases between people.

Public Health officials classify these sightings as isolated cases, handled with regular control measures. The Seville City Council and local animal health centre have not confirmed the exact species, but experts expect the issue to resolve itself within days. The San Juan de Aznalfarache area's mayor, Maraa Luisa Moya, identified them as "little critters" similar to bed bugs but not them, attributing their presence to crop changes in nearby rice fields.

The insects do not bite and pose no risk to people. The San Juan parks will close for two days for disinfection, and the city's services are actively working to reduce their numbers in public spaces. The situation has received mixed reactions on social media, with some expressing support for the council's response and others questioning the implications for pets.

Health professionals have advised checking beds before sleeping and vacuuming suitcases and rucksacks after travel, as bed bugs can resist certain insecticides and may reappear within weeks.